Report: Liverpool open talks with West Ham star Declan Rice’s agent

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Transfer expert Ian McGarry has told the Transfer Window podcast that both Liverpool and Manchester United have opened talks with the agent of West Ham United midfielder Declan Rice over a summer move – but Chelsea are no longer interested.

Rice, 22, has been stunning for West Ham in their pursuit of European football. Wearing the captain’s armband with Mark Noble failing to break into the starting line-up under David Moyes, Rice has excelled – driving his side forward.

An ex-Chelsea academy graduate and close friend of Mason Mount, Rice has been constantly linked with Chelsea – though that was while Frank Lampard was in charge. It remains to be seen if Chelsea are interested, with Thomas Tuchel now at the helm.

But McGarry claims that Rice has fallen down the shortlist of potential summer signings at Chelsea – though that has not stopped interest in Rice’s services. Indeed, McGarry claims Liverpool and United have opened talks with his agent over a move.

“He is no longer on the transfer list of recruitment possibilities for the Stamford Bridge club, but he has certainly roused the interest of Liverpool and Manchester United,” McGarry said, about the 10-time England international.

“Both of whom have expressed interest to Rice’s agent as we understand and they have asked to be kept informed of any offers made for the England international.”

TBR’s view – Which club needs Rice more?

When everyone is fit at Liverpool, Rice is not needed. They have plenty of options at centre-back, while Thiago, Jordan Henderson and Fabinho can all play in holding midfield. But it is whether they can stave off those injuries.

Manchester United meanwhile could do with a holding midfielder. Nemanja Matic is ageing, Fred is not the required standard and both Paul Pogba and Scott McTominay have shown they are better as box-to-box midfielders.

United need him more, but Liverpool would certainly benefit from the £60,000-a-week (Sun) star’s addition.